DON’T TRAVEL WITH THE FLU, URGES CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH

Date:
11/25/2009

Number:
09-112

Contact:
Al Lundeen (916) 440-7259

SACRAMENTO

As the holiday season begins, Dr. Mark Horton, director of the California Department of Public Health, is advising travelers that the flu will not be staying home for the holidays and encouraging them to follow simple steps to avoid having the flu as an unwanted traveling companion.

The holiday season is one of the busiest periods annually for travel. Close contact with others while traveling can help spread infectious diseases like the flu.

“During the holiday season, we enjoy spending time with family, friends and many others,” Horton said. “Whether you’re with them in a plane, a car or at the dinner table, remember good hygiene to prevent spreading infection.”

• Don’t travel with the flu. Stay home if you are sick.• Get vaccinated for both the seasonal and H1N1 flu.• Wash your hands often. Carry hand sanitizer with you and use it when you are not able to wash your hands. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.• Cover your coughs and sneezes with your sleeve or a tissue.